The Moment

Understanding the Values of Democracy

“We know that democracy is always an unfinished creation. Each generation must renew its foundations. Each generation must rediscover the meaning of this hallowed vision in the light of its own modern challenges.”
— President Jimmy Carter

The ideals of democracy are at the core of our shared values and national identity. But what are democratic values? How are human rights foundational to democracy? And how do these values help us understand our politics, government and country today? Learn more with our newest resource on the values of democracy. And explore our Civics for Democracy series, which focuses on understanding the systems of government, politics and the media to develop the civic knowledge, skills and dispositions essential for strengthening democracy.


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